• Cushions and quilts.
• Plenty of ice in a big hamper.
• Utensils from home: serving bowls, sharp knife, forks, plates, spoons, napkins,corkscrew, matches, a small salt and pepper set, can opener, etc.
• Trash bag or grocery sacks for easy cleanup. A roll of paper towels will come in handy, too.

If you're bringing your dog, don't forget the dog food, water and a water bowl.  A hungry dog is not a happy dog.

The most important part of a picnic, though, and what gives it flair, is the food.  So, direct from the picnic basket once everyone is settled, a first course of pickled shrimp with crisp baguette slices is surely the order of the day.